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David’s Story

My life was all nicely planned with a promising law career in the federal public service and my Master’s degree on the way.

But then I started feeling uneasy about my demanding job and people around me. I was paralyzed with anxiety and uncomfortable around other people, including my co-workers, roommates and even friends from church. I often felt so bad that I slept in a church instead of going home. Learning my mental health diagnosis at the hospital emergency department came as a shock.

I did not know what to do and where to look for help. I was lost and very scared. I thought my life was in danger, so I quit my job and abandoned my apartment. Social services and doctors only seemed to address one issue at a time and I was spiraling down into what seemed like a black hole. Then I got a referral to LOFT and the positive changes started happening right away!

My case worker Jennifer took time to understand my goals, hopes and strengths – not just my problems. She immediately arranged for me to see a psychiatrist and went to all my appointments with me. It was so important to have her go with me to the doctors! It added a ton to my confidence and helped me with sticking to the treatment plan.

Not only that, Jennifer helped me find a safe, quiet apartment without roommates, and apply for income support. She always listened to me without judging. I called her whenever I felt bad or had some questions to discuss. With all the help, I began to see a light at the end of a very dark tunnel.

While I was in the transition with my housing and treatment, I got a job offer and it was so hard to decide what to do. Talking about it with Jennifer really helped me make what I think was the right decision. I decided to concentrate on my health issues first and then get back to work after my recovery.

I am so much happier now. My mental health has dramatically improved. My first achievement was going on a trip to Ottawa with friends. I felt quite safe and happy to leave my staff and go for several days with a group.

Then I started going to church more often and enjoying all the community activities there.
Now I have a new job and feel confident in my new role. I am so grateful for all the help I received from LOFT in such a short time. When you have many issues to deal with and are at risk of becoming homeless, you simply need somebody to trust you, guide you, speak for you and show you that you have enough strength to overcome your issues and to achieve your goals.

I am very, very grateful for your support that brings recovery and allows LOFT to keep on helping people who have nobody else to turn to. Thank you.